Best prepaid AT&T SIM card in 2024
Unlocking the best value prepaid SIM card on the AT&T network is all about leveraging the competitive rates offered by low-cost carriers. You'll get the same coverage for a fraction of the cost without the worry of hidden fees and price hikes. Here are my top picks for 2024.
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Top plans list
- Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card: Cheap AT&T SIM card
- Boost Mobile 5GB SIM card: Prepaid AT&T SIM card
- Red Pocket 20GB SIM card: SIM card plan for Android
- Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card: SIM card plan for iPhones
- Boost Infinite Unlimited SIM card: AT&T unlimited SIM card
Table of contents
- My list of recommended SIM card plans on AT&T in March
- Compare AT&T unlimited data plans
- How to choose the best SIM card on AT&T
- Does AT&T offer coverage where you live?
- How much data do you need?
- Is mobile hotspot data included?
- What's the monthly cost?
- How many lines do you need?
- Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
- Are there any deals or promotions?
- What perks are included?
- What international features are available?
- Do they offer parental controls?
- What SIM card size do I need?
- Find the best cell phone service in your area
- Compare the cheapest prepaid AT&T phone plans
- AT&T prepaid SIM card FAQs
- Recap: What is the best AT&T SIM card?
- How we choose the best carriers and plans
MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
Love the AT&T network but want to save money? A prepaid SIM card with an AT&T low-cost carrier is just what you need.
MVNOs (or Mobile Virtual Network Operators) provide access to the same nationwide coverage by operating on the main US networks, but with half price plans.
We've broken down all of the AT&T MVNOs for you below so you can find your perfect prepaid plan.
My list of recommended SIM card plans on AT&T in March
Cheap AT&T SIM card
Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile SIM cards are prepaid SIMs that operate on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
They come with various data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, and if you require multiple SIM cards for your family members, there are discounted rates available that allow for even greater savings.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
- All of Boost Mobile's SIM cards have unlimited talk and text included. They offer unlimited options with up to 30GB of high-speed data for those who use a lot of data.
- They provide a discount on additional lines to save money for families.
- Boost Mobile offers a diverse selection of phones, including the latest models from popular brands such as Apple and Samsung. With 0% financing options over 1-2 years.
- Their international features may not be as comprehensive.
- International roaming options are limited compared to other carriers. In comparison to other carriers, their international roaming options are limited, and making international calls requires an additional add-on.
Prepaid AT&T SIM card
Boost Mobile 5GB SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile SIM cards are prepaid SIMs that operate on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
They come with various data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, and if you require multiple SIM cards for your family members, there are discounted rates available that allow for even greater savings.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
SIM card plan for Android
Red Pocket 20GB SIM card
- AT&T & Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket Mobile SIM cards are powered by both the Verizon and AT&T wireless networks. If you're interested in obtaining multi-line discounts, they're regarded as one of the top MVNOs for family plans. They offer a $20 reduction for every extra line added.
Additionally, you can enjoy free international calls to 80 countries, enabling you to stay in touch with your loved ones overseas.
Pros
- Verizon, and AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calls to 80 countries
- Roaming available in Mexico and Canada
- Mobile hotspot access on all plans
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
Cons
- Limited international roaming
- Red Pocket Mobile offers straightforward SIM card plans with no hidden fees and includes unlimited talk and text.
- Option to use the phone as a hotspot.
- There's a 7-day money-back guarantee with eSIM plans.
- You can save $20 per additional line with a family plan.
- They offer free roaming in Mexico and Canada and free international calling worldwide.
SIM card plan for iPhones
Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile SIM cards are prepaid SIMs that operate on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
They come with various data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, and if you require multiple SIM cards for your family members, there are discounted rates available that allow for even greater savings.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
AT&T unlimited SIM card
Boost Infinite Unlimited SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
The Boost Infinite SIM card - a single plan with a fixed price. Boost Infinite ensures simplicity by operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks. For just $25, you can experience 5G on one of the major networks through their unlimited SIM card plan (with high-speed data capped at 30GB).
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Unlimited SIM card plan (capped at 30GB high-speed data)
- Set price of $25 per month forever
Cons
- No multi-line discounts
- International add-ons available
- For just $25, enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data (up to 30GB of high-speed data).
- There are no surprise charges or hidden fees, only taxes.
- Flexibility to switch plans at any time with no contract.
- Option to add additional features for an extra fee, including roaming in Mexico and Canada (up to 1GB), unlimited international calls to over 80 countries, and text messages to more than 200 countries.
- No additional discounts are available for families looking to join; the cost remains at $25 per person per month.
Compare AT&T unlimited data plans
Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|
AT&T Unlimited Starter | Unlimited | $65 | $780 |
AT&T Unlimited Extra | Unlimited | $75 | $900 |
AT&T Unlimited Premium | Unlimited | $85 | $1,020 |
AT&T vs Boost Mobile comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $612 per year
Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
AT&T | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
Boost Mobile | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $288/yr |
Savings | $50/mo | $612/yr |
How to choose the best SIM card on AT&T
Does AT&T offer coverage where you live?
Operating on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless network, AT&T MVNOs offer the same coverage. According to an Opensignal network experience report 2023, AT&T comes out as the best for availability. If you're new to the AT&T network, you can use our coverage map to find the best cell phone service in your area.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need an AT&T prepaid SIM card for unlimited data? The big 3 wireless companies want you to believe so, but in reality, the average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. Because if you spend most of your time at home or work on Wi-Fi, it's likely your cellular data usage will be much lower. You can pick a plan with enough data to fit your needs with cheap AT&T MVNO plans, meaning if you use less, you can pay less.
Is mobile hotspot data included?
Many AT&T MVNOs permit the usage of hotspot data. However, they impose restrictions on the quantity of data that can be used through tethering. The specific limit varies depending on the carrier and plan that you select. Additionally, some low-cost carriers provide exclusive data only SIM cards designed specifically for iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots.
What's the monthly cost?
While an unlimited data SIM card with AT&T costs around $75-90 per month, the best MVNOs offer budget-friendly SIM cards, ranging from $5-35 per month without compromising coverage or data speeds. Watch out for hidden fees & taxes; some providers include these in the price, and others, such as AT&T, don't.
How many lines do you need?
With AT&T, you only get the advertised low price if you buy four lines. But with AT&T's low-cost carriers, the price you see is the price you pay, even for a single line. Many low-cost carriers now offer further family plan discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
AT&T loves keeping you locked into a constant phone upgrade cycle. But you can bring your own phone to AT&T with their Mobile Virtual Network Operators. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it suits you. Just make sure your phone's unlocked from your old carrier. If you do want to purchase a new smartphone, many MVNOs offer a great way with 0% financing over 1-2 years with offers including the latest iPhone and Samsung models.
Are there any deals or promotions?
Promotions on AT&T's wireless service can seem good at a glance. But once you read the small print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and being stuck in 3-year phone contracts. MVNOs offer a unique service model to build your own plan to fit your needs. Often with unlimited minutes and texts, with many offering short-term introductory discounts for new customers, and their pricing is more transparent.
What perks are included?
Some AT&T plans have premium data along with complimentary TV subscriptions for SD and 4K UHD TV streaming. But these often convert into paid subscriptions that are automatically billed after a few months. Some affordable carriers do provide plan choices with free subscription services like HBO Max. However, it's generally advisable to keep these subscriptions separate to avoid paying for unnecessary things.
What international features are available?
Several low-cost carriers on AT&T's network offer unlimited international talk to 60 or more countries, with some also offering unlimited international texting. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a provider that includes this. If you travel regularly and are looking for SIM cards for international travel, checking the carrier's data roaming availability is vital to avoid unexpected costs or inconveniences while you're abroad.
Do they offer parental controls?
Many MVNO carriers offer parental control features that enable parents to monitor their children's phone usage and data consumption. With parental controls, you can set data limits, restrict access to certain apps or websites, and even track your child's location. Some AT&T MVNOs offer these features as part of their standard plans, or you'll find this feature on your cell phone.
What SIM card size do I need?
The SIM card you need will depend on your device. Most smart devices now use a nano-SIM or eSIM, but some older devices may need a micro-SIM or a standard SIM.
Check out our comparison of the cheapest AT&T cell phone plans before you decide.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
If AT&T isn't giving you the best coverage, check out the best prepaid Verizon SIM cards and the best prepaid T-Mobile SIM cards.
Compare the cheapest prepaid AT&T phone plans
Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red Pocket 1GB SIM card | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $10/mo |
Good2Go Mobile 3GB SIM card | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 3GB | $10/mo |
Red Pocket 5GB SIM card | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $13/mo |
Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $12.50/mo |
Red Pocket Unlimited SIM card | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
SIM cards for international travelers
In the quest for affordable and flexible communication, especially when traveling, prepaid SIM cards have become a pivotal part of helping to stay connected. For travelers jetting from the USA to Europe and other various countries, the GSM technology underlying most prepaid SIM cards ensures phone compatibility, catering to both iPhone, Android, and other smartphones.
Whether you're looking to buy a new SIM card on arrival or opt for a travel SIM card, either is a great option. Also, if your phone is compatible, an eSIM can make this process even easier.
However, your current carrier may offer international plans, but they usually come with a hefty price tag. The best option can be getting a local SIM card, which presents a cost-effective option, often providing a substantial GB of data, free mobile hotspot data, and local call minutes, which are invaluable for internet access to navigate via Google Maps or stay connected through WhatsApp and Skype.
A new SIM card can offer an ideal plan tailored for each destination and guarantee the best rates.
AT&T prepaid SIM card FAQs
You can purchase an AT&T MVNO SIM card online.
There's a great choice of low-cost carriers running on the AT&T network with prices starting from around $10.
Recap: What is the best AT&T SIM card?
With such a variety of prepaid SIMs on the AT&T network, there's plenty of choice for all budgets and needs.
A prepaid plan could save you up to $600 a year, and for even more savings, they encourage you to bring your own phone. No need to spend your hard-earned dollars on a new phone you don't need.
Prepaid SIM card guides
- Best Prepaid SIM Card
- Best Prepaid AT&T SIM Cards
- Best Prepaid T-Mobile SIM Cards
- Tello SIM Cards
- Twigby SIM Cards
- Ultra Mobile SIM Cards
- US Mobile SIM Cards
- Lycamobile SIM Cards
- Mint Mobile SIM Cards
- Boost Infinite SIM Cards
- Boost Mobile SIM Cards
How we choose the best carriers and plans
To select the best carriers and plans, MoneySavingPro's team of experts evaluated over 30 different carriers.
Carriers were rated in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. We then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:
- Value for money: We compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
- Coverage: We look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. We use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
- Customer experience: We take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
- Transparency: We assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. We examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
- Range of choice: We evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.
Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.
We regularly update our comparisons. Updating cell phone plans weekly and our content monthly to ensure we are showing the latest and most accurate information.